And that was enough too see off Arsenal, who hit the crossbar twice through Cesc Fabregas and then Theo Walcott, and had Laurent ­Koscielny sent off late on for a professional foul.

Carroll, though, was the star ­attraction and produced a robust display in front of watching ­England manager Fabio Capello, adding to those championing his inclusion in the squad for the ­forthcoming friendly against France at Wembley.

When asked if he had any reservations about selecting Carroll given the latest headlines, Newcastle boss Hughton said: ‘No. To come here and get the result we have, I think we deserve to talk about football matters.’

Hughton continued: ‘I made a ­selection today based on the ­continuity we have had from the last couple of games.

‘Andy is mentally very strong. He is a player who is developing, apart from having a prowess in the air, he has given us a mobility which can stretch defenders.’

On Carroll’s England claims, Hughton said: ‘For me, being picked for Newcastle is the most important.’